It's disheartening to see so many people struggle with employment once they are released from prison. Friends and family members help when and where they can, but what about the individuals without that support? I did cold calling at the age of 15 for a 22 year old male friend with a misdemeanor drug charge. He didn't have any other support. That one charge on his record made it extremely difficult to get his foot in the door. After about 4 weeks of scouring the newspaper and being rejected, I was finally able to land him 2 interviews. One with a telemarketing company and the other in janitorial services.

Was it an ideal job situation for him? Not at all. However, being realistic, with a record and no skills, you have to start where you are, and build from there.

He didn't make it to either interview and it pissed me off! It was my summer vacation, I should have been outside double-dutching, riding bikes or playing games of girls vs boys in basketball with the rest of the neighborhood kids. Instead I spent that time in the house making phone calls.

I was unaware that he didn't know how to create a resume and cover letter, or that he didn't know what to say during the interview. He also didn't have anything to wear. He was too embarrassed to tell me and even if he did, I had no clue how to tackle any of it. However, if he had told me, together we would have found the resources to make it happen!

I'm not sure where in the world Juan is today but I think about him often, and pray that he is okay. He is of course the inspiration behind this article and the reason for my chosen career path.

Increase Your Odds For Employment

Market yourself properly through a well written resume. Obtain letters of recommendations and/or character references from community officials, church or spiritual leaders. Show potential employers that you have a support system.Confidently present your skills during the interview process. Don't second guess yourself!Write a letter of personal growth and self development.Present to them your desire to be a productive and active member of society.

Have realistic expectations. Understand that this won't be an easy task. Most importantly, BELIEVE in yourself and in people.Not everyone will be understanding of your situation and that is okay.

​You will be rejected and you will become discouraged, but that is normal and to be expected. College graduates with degrees and no criminal record get rejected daily. Ask a college graduate if they are currently working in their desired field; 7 out of 10 of them are not and I can promise many are not happy about it. It's rough out here for everyone but there are companies willing to set aside jobs just to offer you a second chance.

People are thriving daily after experiencing a set back in life. Your situation is not hopeless. You have the power to change it.